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Photoshop is ranked #1 on the top 10 Photo Editing Software leaderboard based on a comprehensive analysis performed by SelectHub research analysts. Compare the leaders with our In-Depth Report.

Photoshop Pricing

Based on our most recent analysis, Photoshop pricing starts at $10 (Monthly).

Price
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Starting From
$9.99
Pricing Model
Monthly
Free Trial
Yes, Request for Free

Training Resources

Photoshop is supported with the following types of training:

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars

Support

The following support services are available for Photoshop:

Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Help Desk
Knowledge Base
Tickets
Training
24/7 Live Support

Photoshop Benefits and Insights

Why use Photoshop?

Key differentiators & advantages of Photoshop

  • Enhanced Creativity: Photoshop provides a wide array of tools and features that allow users to bring their creative visions to life, from intricate photo manipulations to stunning digital paintings.
  • Professional Quality: The software's advanced capabilities ensure that users can produce high-resolution, print-ready images suitable for professional use in marketing, advertising, and publishing.
  • Time Efficiency: With features like batch processing and automated actions, Photoshop helps streamline repetitive tasks, saving valuable time for designers and photographers.
  • Non-Destructive Editing: Photoshop's use of layers and masks allows for adjustments and edits without permanently altering the original image, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
  • Versatile File Compatibility: The software supports a wide range of file formats, making it easy to import and export images for various purposes, from web design to print media.
  • Precision and Control: Tools like the Pen Tool and Smart Guides offer unparalleled precision, enabling users to create detailed and accurate designs and selections.
  • Extensive Learning Resources: Adobe offers comprehensive tutorials, forums, and support, making it easier for users to learn and master Photoshop, regardless of their skill level.
  • Integration with Other Adobe Products: Seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications, such as Illustrator and InDesign, enhances workflow efficiency and project consistency.
  • Customization Options: Users can tailor their workspace and tools to fit their specific needs, improving productivity and comfort during long editing sessions.
  • Advanced Retouching Capabilities: Photoshop's retouching tools, such as the Healing Brush and Clone Stamp, allow for precise corrections and enhancements, making it ideal for portrait and fashion photography.
  • Creative Filters and Effects: A vast library of filters and effects enables users to experiment with different styles and moods, adding unique touches to their projects.
  • Scalability for Different Projects: Whether working on a small social media graphic or a large billboard design, Photoshop's tools and features scale to meet the demands of any project size.
  • Collaboration Features: Cloud documents and shared libraries facilitate collaboration among team members, ensuring consistency and efficiency in multi-person projects.
  • Regular Updates: Adobe frequently updates Photoshop with new features and improvements, ensuring that users always have access to the latest tools and technologies.
  • Global Industry Standard: As the industry standard for photo editing and graphic design, proficiency in Photoshop is a valuable skill that enhances career opportunities and professional credibility.

Industry Expertise

Photoshop expertise is highly sought after in industries that rely heavily on visual content, such as graphic design, photography, web design, marketing, and advertising. Professionals with Photoshop skills are valuable for their ability to create, edit, and enhance images and graphics, contributing to projects ranging from simple photo retouching to complex graphic designs.

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Based on an aggregate of Photoshop reviews taken from the sources above, the following pros & cons have been curated by a SelectHub Market Analyst.

Pros

  • Industry Standard: Photoshop is widely recognized as the go-to software in various creative industries, ensuring compatibility and smooth collaboration on projects.
  • Comprehensive Toolset: From basic adjustments to advanced manipulations, Photoshop offers an extensive array of tools catering to virtually every photo editing and graphic design need.
  • Powerful RAW Processing: Photoshop provides robust tools for adjusting RAW files, giving photographers extensive control over image parameters from the outset of their workflow.
  • AI-Powered Features: Features like Neural Filters leverage artificial intelligence to enable complex edits and achieve stunning results with simplified workflows.

Cons

  • Subscription-Based Model: Unlike a one-time purchase, the subscription model means ongoing costs for users, which can be a deterrent for budget-conscious businesses.
  • Steep Learning Curve: Photoshop's extensive features come with a price - mastering its interface and tools takes time and effort, potentially hindering productivity for new users.
  • Limited Native RAW Editing: Requiring a separate plugin (Adobe Camera RAW) for native RAW image editing can be seen as an unnecessary hurdle compared to software with built-in RAW support.

Researcher's Summary:

Can Photoshop really shop 'til it drops when it comes to features? User reviews from the last year suggest a resounding "yes," with many considering it the undisputed king of image editing. Users consistently highlight its unparalleled power and versatility as major strengths, particularly praising the depth and breadth of its toolset. For instance, the AI-powered features like Generative Fill and Neural Filters are often lauded for their ability to achieve complex edits with surprising ease, setting Photoshop apart from more streamlined alternatives like PhotoWorks. While Photoshop's subscription model and steep learning curve are commonly cited drawbacks, users generally agree that the investment is justified for professionals and serious hobbyists who require the utmost control and precision in their work.

Key Features

Notable Photoshop features include:

  • Layers: Allows for non-destructive editing by stacking multiple elements in a single image.
  • Selection Tools: Includes the Magic Wand, Lasso, and Quick Selection tools for precise area selections.
  • Adjustment Layers: Enables color and tonal adjustments without altering the original image.
  • Brush Tool: Offers customizable brushes for painting and retouching with various textures and effects.
  • Clone Stamp Tool: Copies pixels from one part of an image to another, useful for removing imperfections.
  • Smart Objects: Embeds images or vector graphics in a way that preserves their original quality when transformed.
  • Filters: Provides a range of effects like blur, sharpen, and distort to enhance or stylize images.
  • Pen Tool: Creates precise paths and shapes, essential for vector-based design and complex selections.
  • Content-Aware Fill: Automatically fills in selected areas by analyzing surrounding pixels, ideal for removing unwanted objects.
  • Text Tool: Adds and customizes text with various fonts, sizes, and styles directly onto images.
  • Layer Masks: Controls the visibility of different parts of a layer, allowing for seamless blending and compositing.
  • Blend Modes: Alters how layers interact with each other, offering creative options for combining images.
  • History Panel: Tracks and allows undoing multiple steps, providing flexibility in the editing process.
  • Actions: Automates repetitive tasks by recording and replaying a series of steps, enhancing workflow efficiency.
  • 3D Tools: Enables the creation and manipulation of 3D objects and scenes within a 2D workspace.
  • Camera Raw: Processes raw images with advanced controls for exposure, color balance, and detail enhancement.
  • Liquify Tool: Warps and reshapes image areas, useful for retouching portraits and creating artistic effects.
  • Artboards: Manages multiple layouts within a single document, ideal for web and app design projects.
  • Vector Shapes: Draws and edits scalable shapes and paths, essential for logo design and illustrations.
  • Export Options: Supports various file formats and export settings, ensuring compatibility with different platforms and devices.
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